Just back in town, Randy. I sent you an e-mail. Sad times....

I sooooo agree! Dogwood is my all time favorite flowering tree, Dottie. I promise to post some photos for you as soon as they bloom here in Northwest Ohio.

Yes!

You're referring to Magnolia grandiflora, a glorious species with its glossy leaves, the type that only grows well here in northern Ohio indoors. It was my mother's favorite corsage, with a lovely fragrance. This tree is Magnolia virginiana (Sweetbay Magnolia). It grows well here, although its lovely white soft flowers are prone to frost damage because they do bloom early. In the yard of my childhood home, Mom planted one and often would go out when spring was just warming up and talk to it — Mom believed in talking to her plants and trees — and tell it not to bloom too early. She even planted it on the north side of the house just to slow the bloom time down and avoid frost damage. Sometimes it listened, but mostly not. I love the tree because it, like me, jumps for joy at the first sign of spring warmth. It doesn't bloom long, but boy oh boy, does it bloom! Happy Spring, Jeri. Thanks for your visit.

Magnolias have led the way, blooming their heads off before any other trees at the first hint of warmth. This one at our botanical garden is a beauty. Thanks for stopping by — sending you a springtime hello! Have a great day!

Thanks, Dottie!

Thank you, Laura. Wishing you and yours a blooming day!